AI Chatbots and other Emerging Health Tech Trends

February 20, 2026

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots can provide valuable assistance, but these new platforms must be implemented carefully to avoid misinformation and bias.

A new report from the patient safety organization ECRI ranks the misuse of AI chatbots as the top potential health tech hazard in health care. The report advises caution “whenever using a chatbot for information that can impact patient care.”

It’s estimated 16 percent of Americans rely on chatbots for health information, and the growth of these platforms is on the rise, particularly in areas without access to care.

Predictive language models can produce “human-like communication,” but they will not replace human medical professionals, the report notes. Reported “hallucinations” and biases in data are among the top concerns.

“Medicine is a fundamentally human endeavor. While chatbots are powerful tools, the algorithms cannot replace the expertise, education, and experience of medical professionals,” said Marcus Schabacker, MD, PhD, president and CEO, ECRI.

The report recommends choosing chatbots wisely and for patients, clinicians, and other users to educate themselves on the limitations of these tools. AI governance committees, training, and auditing also are key, the report notes.

“Realizing AI’s promise while protecting people requires disciplined oversight, detailed guidelines, and a clear-eyed understanding of AI’s limitations,” Schabacker said.

Additional information about chatbots and other emerging health tech hazards is available online.